Educators play a central role in the growth of children. Through knowing young people and exploring with them the wonders of life, teachers open children’s minds to hope and possibility. Through encouragement and providing opportunities for young people to embrace and grow through challenges, teachers empower children to develop both confidence and capability. Through the generosity of time and spirit, staff provide a breadth of learning experiences within and beyond the classroom, where children learn about themselves and the value of relationships and community. We are blessed at Pacific to have teachers and staff who care, enjoy engaging as learners, are curious and engage with hearts of service to provide the best possible opportunities for young people. Together, our staff provide a stimulating place of learning where young people feel known, safe and valued and are encouraged to grow as co-learners and contributors, who care and are curious, confident and capable.
We give a prayer of thanks to God, for the tremendous capacity and capability of our staff to enrich the lives of our young people, their families and the community. We thank our staff for the care, commitment and joy they bring into their daily walk with children.
Principal’s Log
The strong partnership between parents, staff and students in the learning at Pacific enhances opportunity for growth. We encourage members of our community to take the time over the next week to express their appreciation to our staff for the ways in which they enrich the lives of people within our community. Pausing to recognise and appreciate the extra time and care that has been given in the planning and provision of learning experiences, the encouraging conversations, pastoral care, the leadership of co-curricular and outdoor education activities, organisation, resource provision and administration, grounds and information technology services adds to energy and connection.
Parent engagement has been at the heart of the College since its inception. We thank and congratulate our team of staff and parents who have learnt and contributed a great deal as they have engaged with the Independent Schools Queensland Mastering Parent Engagement Plus program this year. We thank Mr Damian Davis, Mr Brett Kersnovske, Mrs Emma Lendrum and Mrs Kirsty Ridley and look forward to continuing to strengthen the ways in which parents engage as partners in the learning process.
Year 6-12 students are in the process of either completing major assessment or preparing for major tests at the end of year. Parents play a key role in assisting young people to grow the capability to calmly and progressively focus on the next steps as they prepare for and complete assessment. All Middle and Senior College families are encouraged to read this week’s article by the Head of Career Development, which highlights ways in which parents can support their young people in developing habits that will benefit them throughout life.
We congratulate Lucia who has performed very well at the National School Swimming Carnival winning the U12 Girls Butterfly event. Lucia also successfully competed in the Medley Relay, Freestyle Relay and 50m butterfly events for her age group.
Pacific Pulse provides a unique opportunity for young surfers to compete against each other in a local school competition. We thank Mr Darren Hooper, Mrs Lisa Muir and their team for the organisation and leadership of this unique event for the Sunshine Coast. A special thank you to sponsors Beach Beat Caloundra, Rob Williams Real Estate, Pacific Clinical Psychology and North Caloundra Surf School for their generous sponsorship.
St Mark’s Lutheran Church in Caloundra is excited to share that they have just launched the St Mark’s Maker’s program for children as part of its Sunday services. Families are invited to participate in this creative experience, which offers children the opportunity to grow through hands-on activities, exploration of story, and prayer.
We wish our Year 12s calm, focused, purposeful minds as they prepare for and engage in their exams over the coming weeks.
Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal
From the College Pastor
Real Safety We Can Trust
In our world that constantly looks for security; financial, job, digital, and national; there remains a deep human longing for real safety. Despite all our precautions, we live in an age marked by anxiety, fear, and uncertainty. We install locks, buy insurance, and build systems to protect what we value, yet our hearts still crave assurance that cannot be shaken. In our text for this week, John 10:11-17, Jesus reveals that he as the Good Shepherd is the only true source of lasting safety and peace.
In this passage Jesus draws a clear contrast between a hired hand and the good shepherd. The hired hand, working for pay, flees at the first sign of danger, but the good shepherd stays and protects the flock, even at the cost of his own life. This is not mere imagery but the very heart of God’s gift to us through the work of Jesus Christ, the Gospel. Our safety is not found in circumstances or human systems but in the person of Jesus who knows us, loves us, and willingly sacrifices himself for us.
Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me.” (vs. 14) True safety isn’t just about being protected, but it’s about being known. The shepherd’s care is personal and relational. He calls his sheep by name, and they follow because they recognize his voice (Jn 10:3-4).
Many people today seek safety through isolation or control by keeping others out, holding tightly to resources, or relying solely on their own strength. Yet Jesus invites us to trust him instead of trusting in ourselves. Our safety is secure because he knows who we are, understands our weaknesses, and guards us out of love, not obligation.
Jesus doesn’t just guard his sheep; he lays down his life for them. That’s what makes his protection utterly reliable. The cross is where God’s love and true security meet. In a world where promises can be broken so easily and leaders often fail; Jesus’ love is proven by his sacrifice.
He doesn’t run when danger comes, but he stands in our place for us. The danger that threatens us, he faced head-on and defeated it. Because of his death and resurrection, nothing can separate us from his love and care (Romans 8:38-39). The good shepherd’s sacrifice turns our fear into confidence, for our safety is now anchored in his victory and not our performance.
In verse 16, Jesus says, “I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also.” His love extends beyond our community, group, culture, or nation. The safety he offers is inclusive and reaches across boundaries to draw in all who listen to his voice.
Therefore, the safety we find in Jesus was not meant to be hoarded but shared. When we are his followers, we become agents of his protective love, guiding others to the shepherd who never abandons his flock. In a world full of many different voices offering peace but that ultimately fail, our mission is to echo Jesus’ voice of peace, love and grace.
Finally, Jesus declares that no one takes his life from him, but he lays it down of his own accord and takes it up again. (vs. 17) The good shepherd who died is the same shepherd who rose and reigns. His care is not temporary but eternal.
Because of his resurrection, we can trust that nothing is beyond his control. He watches over our comings and goings, our joys and sorrows, our present and future. Real safety isn’t the absence of danger, but the unshakable presence of Christ with us in every moment.
In Jesus, we find real safety that we can trust; a safety that no threat can undo, no darkness can overpower, and no loss can erase. He doesn’t promise a life without challenges, but he does promise that his presence and his love will never fail us.
So, when fear whispers that we’re alone or unsafe, let us remember that we are known, loved, and guarded by the good shepherd who laid down his life and rose again for us. This is real safety that we can trust.
Pastor Mark Winter
From the Director of Student Engagement
Day for Daniel – A Community of Care and Safety- Friday 31st October
Across Australia, Day for Daniel stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of child safety, education, and awareness. As a College committed to nurturing safe, supported, and connected learners, this day holds special significance for our community.
On Friday 31st October, all students from Prep – Year 12 are encouraged to wear a “splash of red”, a ribbon, socks, hair accessories, or another small item, as a visible sign of our collective responsibility to protect young people. While simple, this symbol represents something profound: that every child deserves safety, care, and dignity.
During Pastoral Care time, Prep – Year 6 students will engage in age-appropriate activities that explore safety, help-seeking, and who the trusted adults are in their lives. These conversations help young people recognise unsafe situations and remind them that they are always able to speak up and seek support.
This focus connects closely with this fortnight’s P-12 pastoral thread of Student Safety. Children and young people flourish in environments where they feel safe emotionally, physically, and spiritually. One of the most powerful safeguards a child has is a network of trusted, caring adults. Teachers, support staff, parents, and family members each play a vital role in helping students feel safe as learners.
During this week’s 6-12 Chapel service, Chaplain Mark shared with staff and students that during the New Testament, shepherds lived closely alongside their sheep, protecting them from danger. They knew each sheep individually, and the sheep recognised the shepherd’s voice. Using this image of trust, Jesus tells us that he is the Good Shepherd, focused on the safety and wellbeing of his flock.
Partnering With Parents – Conversations That Matter
Parents and caregivers are a child’s first and most powerful protectors. Day for Daniel provides a meaningful opportunity for families to also have supportive conversations at home. Helpful starting points might include:
• "Who are your trusted adults?"
Identify family members, teachers, coaches, or friends your child can speak to if they ever feel unsafe.
• "What does feeling safe look like to you?"
Discuss situations that feel safe, and those that may not.
• "If something worries you, what would you do?"
Normalising help-seeking builds confidence and resilience.
Families can also explore excellent online resources which provide simple language and tools to support these conversations, including:
Day for Daniel reminds us that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. As a community grounded in care and respect for each other, we are implored to speak up, look after one another, and create environments where every child feels seen, valued, and safe.
Ms Leigh Finter, Director of Student Engagement
Head of Staff and Student Engagement P-5
Nurturing Safe and Supportive Relationships at School
At Pacific Lutheran College, we believe that every child learns best when they feel safe, seen, and supported. This sense of relational safety—the feeling of being emotionally secure with teachers and peers—is especially important in the early years of schooling. When children know they are cared for, their brains are more open to learning, problem-solving, and building friendships. Simple, everyday interactions like a warm greeting at the door, a shared laugh, or a teacher remembering something special about a child can make a big difference. These moments help create a classroom environment where children feel confident to take risks, ask questions, and grow.
Partnering Together to Build a Caring Community
Relational safety doesn’t stop at the classroom door—it’s something we build together as a whole College community. As parents and caregivers, your trust and encouragement help strengthen the connection between home and College. When children hear positive messages like “Your teacher really cares about you” or “I love hearing about what you’re learning,” it reinforces their sense of belonging. At the same time, our staff also thrive when they feel supported and valued. In our Lutheran tradition, we are called to care for one another with compassion and grace. By working together as families, students, and staff we create a nurturing environment where every child can flourish.
Mastering Parent Engagement Plus
Pacific Lutheran College is pleased to celebrate the successful completion of its second year of the Mastering Parenting Plus program. A committed group of staff have played a key role in facilitating this initiative, working closely with families to strengthen Engagement connections and provide practical strategies for supporting children's emotional, social, and academic growth. Their dedication has helped foster a nurturing and informed community, reinforcing the College’s commitment to holistic student wellbeing.
Understanding the Risks of Roblox for Young Children
Roblox has become a popular online platform among children, offering a vast array of user-generated games and social experiences. While it encourages creativity and collaboration, it also presents challenges that parents and educators should be aware of. The open nature of the platform means that not all content is age-appropriate, and children may encounter games or interactions that are not aligned with their developmental stage. Additionally, the in-game chat feature can expose young users to unmoderated conversations, despite Roblox’s efforts to filter inappropriate language.
To support safe use, it’s important for families to engage in regular conversations about online behaviour and set clear boundaries around screen time and spending. Parental controls and privacy settings within Roblox can help limit exposure to unsuitable content and interactions. By staying informed and involved, adults can help children enjoy the creative benefits of Roblox while minimizing potential risks. More information can be found on the website of the e-commissioner. https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-topics/esafety-guide/roblox
Mr Damian Davis, Head of Staff and Student Engagement P-5
From the Head of Career Development
Careers News
Supporting Your Year 12 Student Through External Exams: The Power of Small Steps
As Year 12 students prepare for their External Exams, this period can bring a mix of anticipation, pressure, and uncertainty for both students and their families. While it can be tempting to focus solely on the final outcomes, the most effective way to support your child is to encourage a steady, structured approach that breaks this time into manageable, achievable steps.
This mindset not only helps reduce stress and improve focus during exam preparation, but it also reflects a valuable skill your child can carry into future study, career, and life experiences setting long-term goals and achieving them through consistent small actions.
Understanding Procrastination
Many students experience procrastination during exam time, often not because of laziness, but due to:
• Feeling overwhelmed by the scale of revision tasks.
• Lack of motivation when the rewards feel distant or unclear.
• Perfectionism leading to fear of failure or avoidance of difficult tasks.
• Distractions from technology or competing priorities.
Recognising these common challenges can help you provide calm, practical support. Encouraging your child to focus on small, achievable goals is often the best antidote to feeling stuck or overwhelmed.
Practical Ways Parents Can Help
1. Encourage the “small steps” approach
Guide your child to divide their study into smaller, more manageable tasks. For example, instead of “study Chemistry,” break it down into “revise the periodic table” or “complete one past paper question.” This makes progress visible and more motivating.
2. Support SMART goal setting
Help your child set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals. SMART goals create a clear sense of direction and purpose and make it easier to track success along the way.
3. Establish a realistic study schedule
Encourage your child to plan study sessions around their energy levels and existing commitments. Balanced timetables that include regular breaks, meals, and rest help build consistency and prevent burnout.
4. Minimise distractions
Create a calm and quiet environment for study. Simple steps like turning off phone notifications or using a designated workspace can significantly improve focus.
5. Promote balance and wellbeing
Remind your child that rest, good nutrition, and physical activity are not luxuries they are essential to effective learning. A well-rested, healthy student is more likely to perform at their best.
6. Celebrate progress and effort
Acknowledge your child’s commitment and perseverance throughout this period. Celebrating small milestones helps maintain motivation and builds confidence heading into exams.
Building Habits for the Future
While these strategies will support your child through their Year 12 External Exams, they also form the foundation for lifelong success. The ability to break down long-term goals into smaller, manageable steps is a vital skill that will serve them well in further study, the workplace, and their personal development journey.
By helping your child focus on progress rather than perfection, you’re empowering them to take ownership of their learning and to approach future challenges with confidence and resilience.
As we head into the exam period, remind your child that success doesn’t come from doing everything at once, but from taking one small, purposeful step at a time.
Year 12 External Examinations – Final Reminders and Congratulations
Congratulations on reaching this significant milestone in your school journey, your final external examinations. You have worked hard to reach this point, and I have every confidence that you are well prepared to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and understanding you have developed throughout your senior studies.
Over the coming three weeks, I encourage you to continue to strive for your personal best. Your dedication, perseverance, and focus will serve you well as you complete this final stage of assessment.
Important Reminders
Exam Session Start Times
All students must arrive promptly to allow time for announcements and equipment checks. These will take place on the grassed area adjacent to the Coral Café.
Please ensure that all electronic devices, including mobile phones and smartwatches, are stored securely before arriving. No mobile phones or any device with a SIM card are permitted in the examination room.
Session Commencement Times:
• AM Session: 8.15am – Equipment checks and instructions
• PM Session: 12.00pm – Equipment checks and instructions
If you have an adjusted start time due to AARA provisions, please arrive at your alternate time, or contact me if you have any concerns.
Late Arrivals
Students who arrive late but within 40 minutes of the scheduled start time will be admitted to the assessment room and provided the full working time as prescribed.
Please note: if you arrive after perusal or planning time has ended, you will not receive additional perusal/planning time.
If you arrive more than 40 minutes late, please go immediately to the Wellbeing Centre to sign in. Staff there will contact Ms Gerlach or Dr Dolling to determine whether permission can be granted for entry.
In all cases of lateness, QCAA requires written notification explaining the reason for your delay and confirming that you did not consult anyone or view assessment materials during that time. QCAA will review these circumstances and may decide not to award a result for that examination if required protocols are not met.
Illness or Misadventure
If you are unable to attend an examination due to illness or unforeseen circumstances, please contact Ms Gerlach at agerlach@pacluth.qld.edu.au . She will advise you on the QCAA Illness and Misadventure procedures and required documentation.
Accessing Exam Information
All information relating to your external examinations can be found on NAV- including:
• Examination timetables
• QCAA directions
• Approved equipment lists
• Illness and Misadventure forms
Please ensure you check this area regularly for any updates or changes to exam information during the examination block.
Final Encouragement
This final stage of Year 12 is a time to stay calm, focused, and confident in your preparation. Take each day one step at a time, arrive ready, and give each exam your best effort. If you have any questions or concerns throughout the coming weeks, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
You’ve got this and we are all incredibly proud of you.
Mrs Veronica Sanmarco, Head of Career Development
Food for Thought
Digital Wellbeing and Healthy Screen Use: The Power of Parental Role Modelling
In today’s digital world, screens are woven into nearly every part of our lives — from work and study to social connection and entertainment. While technology offers incredible benefits, finding a healthy balance is key to maintaining positive mental health and wellbeing for both adults and children.
As parents, one of the most powerful ways to help children develop healthy digital habits is through role modelling. Our children are always watching — how we use our phones at the dinner table, how we respond to notifications during conversations, and how often we “check out” with a screen instead of engaging face to face. Even when we think they’re not paying attention, they are quietly learning from our example.
When we ask children to put their devices away, but continue scrolling ourselves, the message becomes mixed. Young people are quick to pick up on inconsistencies between what adults say and what they do. The goal isn’t to be perfect, but to show mindful, balanced, and purposeful screen use in our own lives.
Here are a few ways parents can model healthy digital behaviour:
• Create tech-free zones and times. Meals, family outings, or the hour before bed are great opportunities to be fully present and screen-free.
• Be intentional. Use screens for connection, creativity, and learning — not just habit or distraction. Talk aloud about why you’re using your device (“I’m checking the weather for tomorrow’s plans”) to model purposeful use.
• Set boundaries and follow them. If you encourage your child to limit gaming or social media time, demonstrate similar balance in your own scrolling habits.
• Prioritise face-to-face connection. Make space for genuine conversation and shared activities without devices nearby.
It’s also helpful to regularly reflect on how screens make you feel — energised, informed, or perhaps overstimulated and drained. Sharing this awareness openly with your child encourages them to notice and manage their own digital wellbeing too.
Ultimately, children learn far more from what they observe than from what they are told. By showing that technology can be a useful tool rather than a constant companion, we give them the best chance to build healthy, balanced digital habits that will serve them well into adulthood.
When we model mindful, meaningful, and moderate screen use, our children learn to do the same.
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
Good Luck to Year 12
This week, our Year 12 Class of 2025 gathered with Dr Dolling to sing “Wade in the Water” together, honouring a cherished Pacific tradition before beginning their English exam. Over the coming weeks, students will sit their final exams before returning to the College for their final week at Pacific. We wish our Year 12 students a calm, confident and focused mindset as they approach this important milestone and we look forward to celebrating their hard work, dedication and achievements when we farewell them in Week 7. Good luck to our Pacific students of Year 12.
Year 9 Outdoor Learning Adventure
We were thrilled to welcome our Pacific Year 9 students back last Friday after their two-week outdoor learning adventure. The Year 9 Outdoor Education program offered a valuable opportunity for students to develop personal growth, strengthen teamwork and communication skills, and deepen their appreciation for the natural environment.
Across the two action-packed weeks, students took part in a supported expedition designed to enhance decision-making and build community connections. They embraced every challenge with enthusiasm and adapted impressively to changing conditions. A heartfelt thank you to Mr Paul Brace, Head of Outdoor Education, for leading the program, and to all the teachers and support staff for their dedication and support. Well done to our Year 9 students.
Day for Daniel
Uniform Shop News
Start Planning Now for Back to School 2026
Get a head start on your 2026 school preparations by organising your child’s uniform early.
• Year 1 in 2026: Students will require a full Formal Uniform along with the current Prep/Sports Uniform.
• Year 6 in 2026: Ensure your child’s Formal Uniform, including a Formal Hat, is updated to the Middle College Uniform.
• Senior School (Year 10–12) in 2026: Boys will need to purchase a Blazer and Trousers as part of the Senior Uniform. Girls will require Blazer and Senior Tie.
If you're unsure of the uniform requirements for your child, please refer to the Uniform Guidelines or book a fitting appointment at the Uniform Shop by calling the main admin office- 54367300.
Avoid the rush and shop early!
A reminder that Year 9 students will need to ensure that they have a Blazer for the Rite Journey Homecoming event (27th November) and Trousers for the boys.
2026 Student Device Lease Program
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 8 Enterprise Market Days Term 4
One of the most exciting events of Term 4 is just around the corner! Our amazing Year 8 Enterprise students will be showcasing their creativity, teamwork, and business skills at the Market Day Stalls over two weeks — Monday Week 5 and Monday Week 6 — during lunch.
As part of their Enterprise unit, Year 8 students have been busy designing and developing their own mini businesses, producing fun games, handmade crafts, and unique accessories. With so many talented young entrepreneurs this semester, we’ll be holding two market days featuring different stalls each week!
When: Monday 3rd & Monday 10th November
Time: 1:00 – 1:40 PM (Lunch)
Where: In front of the Library
Come along to support our young entrepreneurs, enjoy the fun atmosphere, and grab a bargain or two! Most items will be priced to suit pocket money budgets — think gold coins and small notes.
All profits will go towards a good cause or be reinvested in future learning opportunities.
Please note: No food items will be sold.
Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to celebrate student initiative, build College community spirit, and have a whole lot of fun!
Headspace
Library News
Telling Stories Competition Winners
Congratulations to sisters Leah Year 5 and Scarlett Year 7 for their achievements in the Telling Stories writing competition, run by the University of the Sunshine Coast and Mooloolaba Rotary. Last Monday the girls attended the awards ceremony at Venue 114. Scarlett was competing in the Year 7-9 category, against students two years older than herself and won fourth place, receiving a cash prize and a certificate. Leah was the first place winner of the Year 5 category, receiving a trophy and cash prize. Well done to both girls.
Family Connection Event
Last Friday, around 200 people attended the library after hours for our family connection event. We had a reading area where children and parents could share a book together, and three craft activities where families could create dream catchers, space wreaths and design their own pyjamas. The hot chocolate with marshmallows and biscuits were also very popular. Thank you to everyone who attended and to the library staff and volunteers for their help.
Ms Nell Keen, Teacher Librarian
Music News
Thinking About Thinking: Why Music Builds Metacognition
When students practise music, they’re doing more than building skills. They’re building awareness—of their thoughts, their emotions, their strategies, and their progress.
This is the heart of metacognition: the ability to “think about thinking.”
Metacognition is one of the most powerful tools in education. It’s what helps students ask questions like:
• “What am I trying to achieve?”
• “What worked last time?”
• “Where am I getting stuck, and why?”
• “How do I fix it?”
• “Is this good enough, or can I refine it?”
It’s a skill that directly links to academic success—not just in music, but across every subject area. And the research tells us that music is an incredible way to develop this skill.
Music as a Metacognitive Playground
In our Pacific music classrooms, students are constantly:
• Setting personal goals (e.g. mastering a section of a piece)
• Monitoring their progress (e.g. through recording and listening back)
• Adjusting strategies (e.g. changing fingering, slowing tempo, using a metronome)
• Reflecting on performance or composition choices
• Making decisions based on both technical and expressive considerations
This blend of technical control + expressive judgement is what makes music such a powerful metacognitive practice. It engages both the analytical and reflective parts of the brain.
As the article in Frontiers in Psychology (1) notes, music students engage in metacognition through:
“...goal setting, self-monitoring, evaluating and adjusting actions, and reflective judgment across different stages of music learning.” In other words, music teaches students how to learn.
What This Looks Like in Practice
In classrooms across PLC this term, we’ve seen:
• A Year 4 student recognising they needed to slow down to stay in time with the group
• A Year 7 student realising their practice wasn’t working and trying a new approach
• Year 8 students recording compositions, listening back, and adjusting balance and texture based on what they hear
• Senior students setting targets for performance prep, analysing their technique and emotional delivery
These are thinking learners. They’re not just repeating. They’re refining. And that’s what builds lifelong learning skills.
What Helps Build Musical Thinking?
The best way for students to grow as confident, independent musicians (and learners) is through regular practice...even if it is just a few minutes a day. Each time they play, they learn more about what works, what needs adjusting, and how to solve problems on their own. It doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to be consistent, curious, and theirs.
1. Concina E. The Role of Metacognitive Skills in Music Learning and Performing: Theoretical Features and Educational Implications. Frontiers in Psychology. 2019 Jul 12;10.
Year 5 & 6 Multi Instrumental Program Concert
A reminder that the Year 5 & 6 MIP Concert is this coming Wednesday 5th of November at 2pm in the Gym. We would invite you to join us as we celebrate the Multi Instrumental Program students.
Ms Krist-elle Hill, Head of Department - Music (Acting)
Friends of Pacific
Connecting College and Community
Teacher Appreciation Day
This week we celebrate our incredible Pacific teachers who inspire, guide, and support our students every single day. Your dedication, creativity, and care make a lasting difference in the lives of our young people and in the heart of our College community.
Thank you for all that you do — for your passion, patience, and commitment to helping every student reach their potential. We truly appreciate you!
Volunteer Opportunity at Year 4-6 Gala Day onThursday 6th November at Meridan Plain Fields behind the College.
We’re now in the final term, and it’s sure to move quickly! We’re looking forward to catching up with many families over the coming weeks and at the College K-5 Carols.
To help us prepare for what will be a fun afternoon and evening, we’re sharing the Volunteer Registration link early — we’d love your support in making this event a wonderful celebration for our community. Volunteer on the following link for Carols https://volunteersignup.org/9EK49
Donate Linens
Friends of Pacific are supporting the Sunshine Coast Council's "Give A Sheet" initiative.
Between 3rd and 7th November drop off any clean and bagged 100% cotton, 100% polyester or 100% poly/cotton linens at admin reception. FoP will collect and deliver them on the afternoon of Friday the 7th of November.
Ms Jan Watman, Chairperson
Sports News
Year 7-12 Sport
Competitive Sport:
SCISSA Tennis
Our 3 SCISSA Tennis teams are well into the season now and are representing PLC admirably each week in venues across the coast. Our Junior Boys team picked up a win last night which will see them jump up to the top of their pool and our Year 5 and 6 Primary group (which is a first for PLC) has yet to taste defeat. The Junior Girls are showing improvement each week and while they are yet to record their first win, they can’t be faulted for the effort and energy they are bringing to each fixture. Thank you to all players, parents and coaches for their support of the tennis program and we wish them all the best for their remaining fixtures.
Rugby News
On Wednesday this week, we had our third round of competition for the SCISSA Rugby 7’s with 7 out of 8 of our teams competing across the night. It was fantastic to see all teams play with excellent sportsmanship and competitiveness and come away with some fantastic results across the night. Please see the following results: U13A Boys (1W, 2L), U13B Boys (3L), 14A Girls (3W), 14B Girls (1D, 1L), 14 Boys (1W, 1L), 16 Girls (2D, 1W) and 18 Girls (3L).
A special mention to our 14A Girls who placed 2nd overall in the competition and have secured a place in the finals to be held in Week 6, due to their bye next week. This also means our 14B girls have now finished their season – thanks to both the players and coaches for their support of these girls this season. It has been fantastic to see them grow in their confidence on the field over the past few weeks. Thanks again to all our players, parents, coaches and spectators for their ongoing commitment to growing an excellent rugby culture at Pacific.
Student Acknowledgement:
Lucia in Year 7 and her family just finished 5 days at the National School Swimming Championships held in Ballarat. Lucia earned 3 fourth places in the Medley Relay, Freestyle Relay and 50m butterfly. Her biggest achievement was winning the 12 years 100m butterfly with a 2 second PB from her heat to the final. Congratulations Lucia!
Mr Cameron West McInnes, Head of Department - Sport
Junior Sport
Pacific Pulse Surfing Contest
Last Friday our annual Pacific Pulse Surfing Contest was held in fun head high conditions at Currimundi Beach. The contest included surfers from Buddina State School, Mooloolaba State School, Our Lady of the Rosary, Talara Primary College and Good Shepherd Lutheran College along with our very own Pacific Lutheran College surf team.
Students competing on the day had the opportunity to surf in two individual heats to determine age champions and runners up for each age group as well as the overall champion school. Once individual heats were finished, the contest finished off with the highly anticipated Tag Team event with all 8 surfers from each school surfing one wave each in a 25-minute heat. Lots of interesting moves were on display at this event which kept the crowd entertained.
Congratulations to Talara Primary College who were crowned the 2025 Champion School and Our Lady of the Rosary who took out the Tag Team event with some creative and innovative surfing moves.
PLC students who surfed in the contest on the day were:
• Kyle – Year 7
• Ayla– Year 7
• Henry – Year 6
• Luke – Year 6
• Nixon – Year 6
• Indie – Year 6
• Archie – Year 4
• Evie – Year 4
• Jayda – Year 5
• Ari– Year 3
Congratulations to Indie in Year 6 from PLC who was named Runner Up in the Under 11 Girls’ Division.
Thanks to the following PLC staff who helped with set up and the running of the contest. Mr Damian Davis, Mr Scott Massie, Mrs Lisa Muir, Mrs Sharon Hooper and Mr Cameron West-McInnes. Lastly a very big thank you to the very generous sponsors who contributed to enable the contest to once again proceed – Beach Beat Caloundra, Rob Williams Real Estate, Pacific Clinical Psychology and North Caloundra Surf School.
Lightning Cup Netball Carnival
Last Friday, our two PLC representative primary school netball teams finished off their season at the Unitywater Lightning Cup Netball Carnival held at Fisherman’s Rd Netball Complex. These two PLC teams had been training since Term 2 and had competed in the Netball Qld Gala Competition in Term 2, Netball Qld Primary Schools Cup in the September holidays and finally the Lightning Cup.
This year’s Lightning Cup was at capacity with team numbers and there is a waitlist of schools for the 2026 event. Our PLC Gems team, when playing in the Thunder Cup (Development Division), were missing a couple players on the day and finished in 27th position out of 40 teams. There are number of younger Year 4 players in this team who will benefit from the experience this year.
The PLC Jewels who played in the top division (Lightning Division) finished in 9th position out of 24 teams from across the Sunshine Coast. It was pleasing to see the girls record a top ten finish in the final competition of the year.
A big thank you must go to Michelle Dufty (Jewels coach) and Mrs Karen Costa (Gems coach) for training and supporting the girls during the year.
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.
St Mark's Lutheran Church
Worship @ St Mark’s
Sharing a common mission and ministry with Pacific Lutheran College
“Growing in faith and sharing God’s love with others”
Weekly worship services are held at 14 Bombala Terrace Caloundra at 9.00am. We are thankful that we can meet together each week for worship.
Our worship services are intergenerational with a blend of traditional and contemporary.
You’re welcome to follow us on Facebook and visit our Church webpage.
Sharing a common mission and ministry with Pacific Lutheran College