This week in chapel, our Year 6P class highlighted the way in which social media often turns our focus onto ourselves. Within many platforms, there is a culture of comparison where there is pressure to always present an idealised self, creating a sense that there is always something more or better. This culture can result in a focus on ourselves, where we are constantly tracking and comparing ourselves to others, and a loss of authenticity. The value of our life experiences can be reduced to extrinsic valuation generated through the number of likes received rather than enrichment and growth that occurs through intrinsic valuing. There can be an erosion of the development of important capabilities including empathy, humility, gratitude, the ability to form relationships and discernment. Through comparison, we can lose sight of the blessings and the opportunity to grow through engaging in the imperfect and messiness as we respond to the needs of people. We can become more of a human doing rather than a human being.
God has given us great capacity to be outward looking and to grow through the fullness, imperfection and messiness of life. Through connecting with people and our environment with humility, grace, compassion, love, courage, gratitude, kindness, curiosity and humour we become fully aware of the richness that surrounds us each day. Entering any setting with curiosity, open to the adventure of growth, celebrating and identifying the strengths of people and context, we flourish as we bring hope and possibility.
Principal’s Log
There was a very strong buzz of connection at our Middle College Orientation Day on Tuesday. New and continuing students enjoyed engaging with each other as they gained insight into the rich opportunities of learning available in the next phase of their learning. Parents enjoyed connecting and learning at the Year 6 and 7 2026 Information Evening as they engaged with learning leaders including those of Pacific Arts and Tech Quest and staff and parent leaders of enrichment and co-curricular experiences. Thank you to all students for making the day a great day of connection and learning and our parents for welcoming, engaging and connecting. A particular thank you to our staff team who made the day such a success and to Mr Brett Kersnovske, Mrs Jo Belchamber and Mrs Carly Lovell for their leadership and organisation.
We wish our Future Problem Solving Team all the best as they compete in the National Finals this weekend in Sydney at Knox Grammar School. Pacific has a representative in every section of the competition which is an extraordinary achievement. We thank Mrs Jo Belchamber, Ms Sue Arahill, Mr Rob Belchamber and Mrs Linda Sydes for their leadership and for accompanying the students this weekend. We thank coaches Mr Tim Barrett, Miss Adelle Byerlee, Mrs Emma Lendrum, Ms Tammy Schincariol and Miss Makani Campbell.
Our kayakers have been working hard all year and are looking forward to testing their skills at tomorrow’s Paddle Queensland Sprint School Championships. We thank Mr Gary Graves and coaches Mrs Leah Croke, Mr Darren Hooper and Mr Braedon Shears for their leadership and wish the team all the best.
May God help us all to be grateful for the abundance that surrounds us each day. May He help us to embrace the fullness of life with grace and compassion.
Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal
From the College Pastor
Unseen Acts of Kindness
When you do good deeds, don’t try to show off. If you do, you won’t get a reward from your Father in heaven. When you give to the needy, don’t let anyone know about it. Then your gift will be given in secret. Your Father knows what is done in secret and will reward you. (Matthew 6:1, 3-4).
The Bible reading that we have been looking at this week at College is always one that makes me think about ‘random acts of kindness’. You know those unplanned, selfless gestures that show care and compassion to others. They often happen quietly, without recognition or reward, and sometimes even anonymously. The idea is to make someone’s day a little brighter, purely out of goodwill.
These acts of kindness can have many beneficial effects within any community. Firstly, they tend to build community, because small kindness reminds people that they are not alone and that goodness still exists in this world. Secondly, they tend to ripple outward, because one act of kindness can inspire others to do the same, creating a ‘chain reaction’ of kindness as a form of ‘paying the thanks forward’. Thirdly, it has been shown that these acts of kindness tend to improve well-being, because both the giver and the receiver experience boosts in mood, gratitude, and even physical health from the experience. Fourthly, these acts of kindness foster empathy, because practicing kindness strengthens compassion and helps us see life from the perspectives of other people. Finally, they tend to nurture community, because when kindness becomes common amongst people it transforms groups, workplaces, and schools into more caring environments.
So how might we cultivate kindness, service and a giving spirit within our Pacific community?
This week’s text indicates that kindness, service and giving begins within the heart of each one of us. It’s here that we can grow in empathy to see life through the eyes of others, especially those going through difficulties and those that are difficult to love. As we reflect and pray, we can focus and ask for a compassionate spirit and patience to deal with others with kindness. As the heart changes, one becomes more willing to forgive quickly and not hold resentment which hardens the heart and tends to block kindness, service and freely giving.
With open hearts, we can begin to move from random acts of kindness, service and giving to making it more intentional, by making deliberate choices to serve, show kindness and give generously. We could plan to live generously by freely giving our time, attention, and small resources regularly to those that need it. We can look for all those opportunities for service, giving and showing kindness, by paying attention to people’s needs, whether that be struggling students, lonely neighbours, or tiring colleagues.
Words are one of the easiest and most powerful tools for showing kindness and support to others in need. Words can speak life into situations of service and giving. Simply offering a genuine compliment to someone, avoiding gossip or harsh criticism, or speaking words of comfort, encouragement, and blessing are valued acts of kindness that lift people out of difficulties and struggles.
Matthew 6:1-4 encourages us to serve and give kindness quietly, not drawing attention to ourselves. This is a great reflection of God’s acts of kindness to us. Remember everything that we have comes from the kindness of our creator God and through Jesus God has demonstrated kindness toward us in so many ways and offers us full and complete forgiveness. This is often done in the quiet. So, when we do unseen acts of kindness, we are reflecting the acts of kindness that God has, is and always does for all of us.
Some questions that I challenge myself with daily: - Do I do acts of kindness or service mainly to be noticed or appreciated? How can I give and serve more quietly in a way that honours God rather than myself? What unseen, secret acts of kindness could I practice on a regular basis?
My prayer is Lord, help us give with pure motives and a humble heart. May our generosity reflect your love and not our pride. Teach us to do good quietly, trusting that you see and reward what is done in secret. Amen.
Mr Mark Winter, College Pastor
From the Head of Student Engagement Middle College
Year 6 and 7 Orientation Day
On Tuesday 14th October, the College was filled with excitement and energy as we welcomed over 70 new students for our Year 6 and 7 Orientation Day. These young people will be joining our Pacific community in 2026, and the day provided a wonderful opportunity for them to experience what life as a PLC Middle College student is all about.
Throughout the day, students engaged in a range of connection activities designed to help them feel comfortable, make new friends, and begin to develop a sense of belonging within our College community. They participated in curriculum-based learning experiences, met key teaching staff, and were buddied up with current PLC students who guided them through their day and shared insights about Middle College life.
The campus was alive with smiles and conversation as our new students explored classrooms, collaborated in group challenges, and discovered the values that underpin the way we learn and grow at Pacific. Our staff were impressed by the curiosity and enthusiasm shown by each student as they embraced new experiences and built connections with their peers and teachers.
Adding to the atmosphere, lunchtime featured live entertainment from our Year 6 Rock Band who created a vibrant and celebratory feel. It was heartening to see our existing students warmly welcome our visitors and demonstrate the genuine spirit of care, dignity and respect that defines Pacific.
In the evening, we welcomed parents and caregivers to the College Gym for an engaging Expo-style event that was designed to initiate and build connections for 2026. Families had the chance to speak with teachers and support staff, learn more about Middle College programs, and explore opportunities for their children to become involved in the rich array of curricular and co-curricular activities on offer at Pacific.
The sense of excitement and anticipation for 2026 was evident throughout the day. Both students and parents left feeling reassured and inspired, with many commenting on the warm, community-focused environment that makes Pacific Lutheran College such a special place to learn and grow.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all staff and students who contributed to making the day such a success. We can’t wait to see our newest Middle College students walking through the gates in their PLC uniforms on Day 1, 2026 — ready to begin their next chapter of learning, friendship, and growth.
Mr Brett Kersnovske, Head of Student Engagement Middle College
Like many of you, I’ve been captivated recently by the incredible displays of focus, resilience, and teamwork in high-level sporting settings. What always strikes me is the mindset individuals bring when things don’t go as planned. Whether it’s a missed opportunity or a small mistake, these moments—though seemingly minor—can have a big impact. Yet, time and again, we see people demonstrate the mental strength to acknowledge the moment, let it go, and refocus on what lies ahead.
This ability to quickly recognise that the past cannot be changed, and to shift attention to the present, is a powerful skill. While reflection and learning are important later, in the moment, it’s that determination to move forward that often leads to future success. This mindset aligns beautifully with our You Can Do It focus this term.
We’ll be exploring social and emotional blockers—things like worrying, feeling down or angry, dwelling on negative experiences, and procrastinating. These blockers can get in the way of our progress and goals. Throughout the term, students will be encouraged to become “lifesavers,” learning strategies to help themselves and others overcome these challenges. For example, one technique for unblocking worries might include:
• self-talk
• choosing positive action
• talking to someone and
• calming down through actions and thoughts.
No one practice or method works for everyone. We aim to provide a range of strategies for our students to use when and where needed. This will continue to be covered in our Foundation and Junior College Assemblies.
Keeping safe in our neighbourhoods
On the 31st of this month, the Day for Daniel will be recognised in schools across the Sunshine Coast and, increasingly, across the state and country. It is a time to acknowledge the potential safety concerns in our community and educate our students on ways to keep them safe.
Fortunately, examples of actual harm to our children in their neighbourhoods are rare, and our communities' connection is strong. Unfortunately, many of us are aware of the devastating impact that the disappearance of Daniel Morcombe had on his family and the community in general. In the passing years, his family have fought hard to make sure that his memory will live on through the foundation and every year, the child safety message is communicated.
During this week’s assembly we spoke of the contrasting story of Daniel. His story includes the traumatic events that we are all familiar with, but the hope, resilience and determination from his family to educate others is truly remarkable. One of the key indicators of feeling safe involves children reading their body clues. From an increased heart rate to sweaty palms, whatever age we are, our body provides clues to our surroundings and whether we are safe or not. These were discussed with students and we also spoke about the fact that it is sometimes ok to yell, scream and run if things are not ok. The foundation website, https://danielmorcombe.com.au/ has many resources about how we may equip our children to understand and read signs that aim to keep them safe. These resources are age-appropriate and cover a range of topics and I encourage you to peruse them and discuss their contents with your children.
A reminder about after-school safety
We kindly ask that all students remain within the school grounds at the end of the day until they are collected by a parent or guardian. For safety reasons, students are not permitted to leave the school premises—such as crossing the road to visit the local shop—and then return to school. Once students exit the grounds, we can no longer ensure their supervision or safety. We appreciate your support in reinforcing this message with your child to help keep everyone safe and accounted for.
Take care and God Bless.
Mr Damian Davis, Head of Staff and Student Engagement P-5
Food for Thought
Helping Your Child Develop a Growth Mindset
At school, we talk a lot about having a growth mindset — the belief that our abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort, good strategies, and help from others. This idea, championed by psychologist Carol Dweck, contrasts with a fixed mindset, which assumes our talents are set in stone. When children believe they can grow and improve, they’re more likely to take on challenges, persist through setbacks, and value learning over simply looking “smart.”
A growth mindset doesn’t mean pretending everything is easy or ignoring frustration. It’s about recognising that mistakes and effort are essential parts of learning. In fact, research shows that our brains grow and form new connections when we make and correct mistakes. For example, a student who struggles with maths might say, “I’m not good at maths yet,” instead of “I’ll never be good at this.” That small word — yet — signals the belief that improvement is possible.
Parents play a powerful role in shaping how children think about their own abilities. The way we respond to challenges, setbacks, and success teaches our children how to approach their own. When parents treat mistakes as teaching moments rather than failures, children learn that errors aren’t something to hide or feel ashamed of — they’re opportunities to reflect, adjust, and try again.
For instance, if your child forgets a homework task, instead of focusing only on the missed deadline, you could ask, “What might help you remember next time?” This approach guides them to think about strategies for improvement. Similarly, if a project doesn’t go as planned, you might say, “What did you learn from that?” or “What would you do differently next time?” These questions turn missteps into powerful tools for growth.
Here are some ways to nurture a growth mindset at home:
• Model learning from mistakes - share your own setbacks and how you recovered.
• Celebrate effort and strategy - praise persistence, not just outcomes.
• Use ‘yet’ language - “You can’t do it yet — but you’re learning.”
• Encourage challenge-seeking - remind children that struggle means their brain is growing stronger.
By helping children see mistakes as a normal — even valuable — part of learning, we nurture resilience, confidence, and a love of growth that will benefit them for life. Life is a series of learning and growth opportunities – sometimes we just need a little support and guidance to see it this way.
Be kind to yourselves and those around you.
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
Year 6 Canberra Trip 2025
Recognising Government Support of the Year 6 Canberra Trip 2025
Our Year 6 students had an education tour of the national capital in September. Students were given the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational programs with a focus on Australia’s history, culture, heritage and democracy. The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. The Australian Government is contributing funding of $90 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program. The rebate is paid directly to the school.
Canberra Trip Highlights
Last term Year 6 students travelled to Canberra for an unforgettable educational adventure. Over five exciting days, students explored Australia’s capital and deepened their understanding of our nation’s history, government, and science. Highlights included meeting the Governor-General at Government House, exploring Parliament House, and discovering the wonders of Questacon. Students were amazed by the animals at the Canberra Zoo, inspired by elite athletes at the Australian Institute of Sport, and moved by the stories of courage at the Australian War Memorial. Visits to the Royal Australian Mint and GeoScience Australia rounded out a week full of learning, laughter, and lasting memories. It was truly an experience to remember.
Day for Daniel
Enthuse 2025
During the second week of the school holidays, the College Captains and Vice-Captains for 2026 attended Enthuse Leadership Camp at Luther Heights in Coolum, where we had the opportunity to spend 5 days with 40 other leaders from around Queensland.
Small Groups
On day one, we were all placed into our 'small groups' of around ten of us and two facilitators. This same group stayed together for the entire week, and through team-building activities and shared experiences, we made excellent connections. It was amazing how quickly we trusted each other and became such a close and supportive group.
Activities
Throughout the week, we engaged in various activities that challenged us as leaders and individuals. From 'soul-sesh' to 'rescue me', we engaged in personal reflection but also worked with others in challenging scenarios to develop our leadership skills and better understand ourselves.
Leadership lessons
One of the most significant lessons we learned was the importance of having a ‘why?’ which led us to consider our purpose and motivation as leaders. We also learned about six key paradigms of servant leadership, including the importance of trust and vulnerability within our leadership team. Through various activities, debriefs, and reflections, we were encouraged to genuinely consider our leadership styles and be honest with ourselves and our groups.
Connections and Friendships
During our leadership camp, we connected with like-minded leaders who all share the same passion and drive. As the week progressed, we grew closer through teamwork, laughter, and the various activities that encouraged us to step outside our comfort zones. One of our favourite places was ‘the house’: a space where we could all relax, play games, and spend time together. It also became home to the “fuzzies,” envelopes where we could write kind, encouraging messages to each other throughout the week. Reading those at the end was a wholesome moment that reminded us how much we had supported and inspired one another. Saying goodbye was sad, but it showed how strong the connections and friendships we built had become.
Final Night Celebration
On the final day of content, we were allowed to plan a night of celebration, entirely run by student leaders! We split into multiple groups, each taking charge of specific areas, including time management, media and advertising, and event management. The organisation of the night highlighted the skills and growth we had made throughout the week. We were able to put together an op shop, dress-up themed night, filled with laughter and appreciation for the lifelong memories and friendships we had created along the way.
Overall, Enthuse 2025 is an experience that will stay with us for many years to come. The connections and friendships will last a lifetime. We never expected that one week could have such a profound impact; it truly changed our perspective on leadership and set us up for a very exciting and intense year ahead.
College Captains and Vice-Captains for 2026
Library News
Success in Writing Competitions
Four of our students have recently had success in writing competitions. In the Telling Stories competition, run by Mooloolaba Rotary and the University of the Sunshine Coast, students had to write a story with the title “Let’s celebrate!”. Two of our students have been named in the top 5 for their age group. On the 27th of October they will attend the awards ceremony at Venue 114 where the winners will be announced. Well done and good luck to Leah in Year 5 and Scarlett in Year 7.
Author, Aleesha Darlinson, ran a competition to launch her new book “Clara Capybara”. Students had to research capybaras and write in 25 words or fewer why they loved capybaras. Two of our students got Highly Commended and won certificates and prize packs. Congratulations to Harper in Year 1 and Mikayla in Year 3.
Ms Nell Keen, Teacher Librarian
Lutheran Youth Queensland Summer Camps
Looking for things for your Year 3-11 student to do over the summer holidays? Check out the camps and activities offered by LYQ. Click here for details
Year 9 Outdoor Education
This week, our Year 9 students set off with quiet excitement on their two-week Outdoor Education Camp at Noosa and Conondale. This unique experience is designed to foster independence, confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills, while also deepening their connection with nature and each other. We look forward to hearing their stories, challenges, and reflections when they return next week.
Pacific Future Problem Solving Students at Nationals
We’re thrilled to announce that 16 students from Year 6 through 11 will be representing the College at the National Finals in Sydney, held at Knox Grammar School, this coming weekend.
We are incredibly proud of the many students involved in this program at Pacific. Congratulations to all our 2025 Pacific competitors, especially those participating across four different competition categories. Our Global Issues students, along with our MAGIC participant, have been researching Nanotechnology and will complete a booklet on Saturday before presenting their Action Plan. The Community Problem Solving team, Project Paws, will showcase their work at the Community Problem Solving Fair, while our Scenario Performance student will deliver her prepared performance to a large audience.
We applaud all the students for their dedication and hard work in preparing for this event. A big thank you also goes to their coaches, Mrs Jo Belchamber, Ms Sue Arahill, Mr Rob Belchamber and Mrs Linda Sydes, who will be supporting the students throughout the trip.
Details about the 2026 Student Device Lease program are now available. Families who wish to lease a device through the College should fill out the form on the Bring You Own Device page on our College website. The form is also available through the QR code or this link.
Mr Steve Rattey, ICT Manager
Year 12 2026 Information Evening
The Year 12 2026 Information Evening will be held on Tuesday 21st October from 6pm in the College gym. Light refreshments will be available from 5:30pm. All Year 11 students and their parents/carers are strongly encouraged to attend. Students do not need to be in school uniform. Information will be presented on the night by Mr Nigel Farley, Head of Student Engagement Senior College, Ms Anne-Marie Gerlach, Head of Learning Senior College and Mrs Veronica Sanmarco, Head of Career Development. They will address topics ranging from senior leadership and pastoral care, through to academic learning, career opportunities, tertiary study options, and life post-school.
Ms Anne-Marie Gerlach, Head of Learning Senior College
Music News
Welcome to Term 4! As we enter our final chapter of 2025, the Music Department is buzzing with energy, excitement, and a deep sense of pride. You may start hearing about upcoming ensemble concerts, assessment compositions, and end-of-year performances - but what we really want to shine a light on this term is the process behind the performance.
What audiences see on stage or in the classroom - the polished song, the confident soloist, the synchronised band is only the tip of the iceberg. Behind that moment are months of preparation, silent perseverance, messy first attempts, sore fingers, broken reeds, and the quiet bravery it takes for a young person to show up and try again.
Learning music teaches students to be resilient, consistent, and collaborative. They learn to listen to themselves and to others while learning to adjust, refine, and grow. These are the kinds of habits that shape young people into leaders far beyond the music room.
Looking Back on Term 3
We came off a huge Term 3, and I want to take a moment to celebrate what PLC Music students have achieved:
• Sunshine Coast Eisteddfod – incredible performances from soloists, small groups, and large ensembles
• Classroom units that focused on collaboration and creativity
• Lunchtime concerts where students confidently led performances
• A noticeable lift in music literacy and musical independence
These wins happen because of practice, encouragement, and trust—from both students and families. Thank you for the part you played in making it all possible. In Term 3, we also welcomed Mr Jarvis Miller to our music team!
What’s Really Happening in the Brain?
Here’s something you might not see during a rehearsal: music is quietly reshaping your child’s brain.
Research from Dr Anita Collins and the Bigger Better Brains project shows that playing music activates nearly every region of the brain at once. It helps students:
• Focus for longer periods
• Regulate big emotions
• Strengthen memory and problem-solving
• Build connections between their creative and logical thinking
It’s no exaggeration to say that music is helping wire your child’s brain for learning - now and for the future.
Music Date Savers: Term 4
We’d love you to be part of our end-of-year celebrations! Here are some upcoming events to pop into your diary:
• Week 5 – Year 5 & 6 Band Immersion Showcase
• Week 5 – Instrumental Tutor Concerts
• Week 6 – Year 3 & 4 Strings Concert
• Week 7 – Junior Ensembles Concert
• Week 8 – K-5 Carols
Your presence makes a huge difference to our young performers—we hope to see you there!
Ms Krist-elle Hill, Head of Department - Music (Acting)
Parents Network Webinar- Social Media changes for under 16s
Australia’s world-first social media ban for under 16s starts this December and it’s set to reshape how young people engage online.
In this free parent webinar, clinical psychologist Dr Danielle Einstein – co-author of “Raising Anxiety” will unpack:
• What’s changing and why
• The established links between social media, device use, self esteem and anxiety
• How to best prepare for the change
• Directions to resources to support your family
Read more and download the shareable flyer to share with your families.
This webinar will be recorded and made available on the Queensland Independent Schools Parents Network website in the days after the live webinar.
Our Lucky Car Park Winner for Term 4 is Laura Murphy.
Volunteer Opportunity at Gala Day
Come and join our fantastic volunteer crew on Thursday 6th November at Meridan Plain Fields behind the College. If you could offer an hour during the day we would really appreciate it.
Next Friends of Pacific Meeting is Tuesday 21st October at 6:30pm in the College Library.
Ms Jan Watman, Chairperson
Sports News
Year 7 – 12 Sport
Sunshine Coast Regional Sport Trials
Students who wish to participate in upcoming Sunshine Coast Regional Sport trials are encouraged to register their interest with Mrs Lisa Muir at lmuir@pacluth.qld.edu.au
Regional Trials on offer:
• 15-19 Boys Cricket
• 15-19yrs Baseball
• 15-19 Girls Cricket
• 13-19 Boys and Girls Tennis
SCISSA Rugby 7’s
Last night we had the SCISSA Rugby 7’s tournament kick-off at Meridan Sport Fields. We had a fantastic turn out of players, with 7 out of 9 of our teams competing against schools from across the Sunshine Coast. Well done to our; Open Girls (1W, 1D and 1L), Open Boys (1D, 2L), U16 Boys (2W), U16 Girls (2L), U14 Boys (1W, 2L), U14 Girls A (1W, 1D) and U14 Girls B (3L). A special mention goes out to the U16 Boys who are undefeated in the competition so far. Thanks again to all coaches and spectators on their efforts last night and look we forward to our next round of competition next Wednesday.
Student Acknowledgement
Congratulations to Paris in Year 9 who made Sunshine Coast regional cricket teams as an active member in the Under 15 Country Week Cricket Team, Paul Pink Team, Open Women’s T2 Scorchers Team and the Sunshine Coast Schoolgirls Team. The Pacific community is amazed by your efforts.
Congratulations to Sofia in Year 8 who competed at the QA All Schools Athletic Championship and represented PLC in the 1500m and 3000m race. Her 3000m time (10.34) qualified her for Nationals in April at the Australian Junior Athletic Championships. Overall, she came 7th in that State race.
Lani in Year 7 also ran 1500m and proudly represented PLC. Well done, Lani.
Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport
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
Middle College Orientation Evening
We warmly welcomed Year 6 and 7 students to the Orientation Evening this week.
To keep up to date on the latest news, scan the QR code below to view our website.
2026 Registrations open – December
Come and Try Days and Skills Sessions – January and early February
Teams Announced and training begins – Mid February
Matches commence – 7th March
REP TRIALS 2026 – U10 to U16
SCCSA’s Rep Trials continue this weekend for those who have registered
Sharing a common mission and ministry with Pacific Lutheran College